Sausage and Kale Pasta: A Flavorful One Pot Dinner 🥗🍝🔥

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite sausage kale pasta recipe—an easy weeknight meal that combines hearty sausage, nutrient-packed kale, and perfectly cooked pasta in just one pot. This one pot dinner is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you crave comfort food without the hassle of multiple cleanup. With a delicious blend of spices and fresh greens, this sausage kale pasta elevates your weeknight dinner game and offers a nutritious twist on traditional pasta dishes.

2. Ingredients for Sausage and Kale Pasta

12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 lb (450 g) of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
4 cups of chopped kale (stems removed)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 cup of chicken broth or vegetable stock
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Sausage Kale Pasta

Preparation of Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and prepare them by chopping kale, dicing onion, and mincing garlic to ensure smooth cooking.

Cooking the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage and set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics and Kale

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Cooking the Pasta and Combining Flavors

Meanwhile, cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with kale and aromatics, then stir in the cooked sausage, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. If the mixture appears dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Final Touches and Serving

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for added flavor. For a complete easy weeknight meal, pair this dish with a simple side salad and crusty bread. For more ideas, explore our veggie spring rolls or blackened fish with mango salsa.

4. Storage Tips for Sausage Kale Pasta

Leftover sausage kale pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture. Avoid freezing, as the kale may become soggy upon thawing.

5. Serving Suggestions for Sausage and Kale Pasta

This delicious pasta pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh side salad. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon over the dish for extra brightness. For a vegetarian alternative, omit the sausage and add grilled vegetables or tofu. Check out our loaded cowboy cookies for a sweet finish or enjoy a slice of easy tres leches cake for dessert.

6. FAQs About Sausage Kale Pasta

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the sausage with sautéed vegetables, tofu, or plant-based sausage alternatives for a tasty vegetarian version of kale pasta.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine works well, but short varieties like penne or rigatoni are equally delicious and easier to stir into the kale and sausage mixture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Simply add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for a spicy kick that complements the savory sausage and greens.

7. Conclusion

This sausage kale pasta recipe is a perfect example of how a simple ingredients combination can create an easy weeknight meal packed with flavor and nutrition. The one pot cooking method not only saves you time but also locks in the delicious flavors, making it an ideal one pot dinner for busy families and anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Incorporate this dish into your regular dinner rotation and enjoy a nutritious, flavorful experience that everyone will love!

Sausage and Kale Pasta